Clean energy conference to bring world's power pioneers to Savannah

Energy production is a dirty business - economically, politically and environmentally.

Those taking the lead in cleaning up the industry will meet this November in Savannah.

More than 300 energy thought leaders from around the world have committed to attend the first Savannah International Clean Energy Conference. The event is Nov. 11-13 at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center.

The theme of the conference is "the global march toward energy independence: clean energy ignites the cleantech revolution." The event will include presentations on the state of various energy sectors, from nuclear and natural gas to energy efficiency and grid-level storage. Panel discussions on energy independence will focus on practical approaches from economic, political and environmental standpoints.

The conference "will explore the significance and global impact energy independence will have on clean energy, clean technologies and economic growth."

"A lot of times, the focus is on energy locally, and that makes senses, but it is a global issue," said Shawn Lesser, co-founder of the Global Cleantech Cluster Association, an organization committed to the global commercialization of clean technologies.

"Concerns about the energy and the environment aren't going away, and an event like this brings together people with different perspectives," Lesser said.

Representatives from approximately 20 of the 45 registered cleantech clusters around the world will attend the event. The conference will also serve as the annual gala for the Global Cleantech Cluster Association, bringing together the heads of the world's leading clean technology companies for a banquet and awards ceremony.

Savannah officials hope by hosting the conference they can raise awareness of the area and the state as a future hub for the cleantech sector.

The event is a "great showcase" for Savannah, according to Savannah Economic Development Authority CEO Steve Weathers.

"You might find individuals at the conference who know Atlanta but don't realize Savannah has the fourth largest port in the country, all these waterways, an oceanographic institute and everything else we have to offer," said Weathers, whose group is an event sponsor. "This conference opens the door."

The Savannah International Clean Energy Conference is also the finale of what Weathers calls a local "season of innovation." Five events - the S.T.E.M. Education Awards, the Savannah Ocean Exchange conference, the Savannah Film Festival, Geekend and the Savannah International Clean Energy Conference - will be held locally between Sept. 14 and Nov. 13.